Complicating matters further, the Zika virus appears to be spreading rapidly across both Central and South America, and the Caribbean and even parts of North America are at risk as well. The virus has now been reported in 9 countries in the Americas; Brazil, Chile (on Easter Island), Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Suriname, and Venezuela.

Today the World Health Organization and PAHO have issued a joint Epidemiological Alert, which runs 11 pages in length. Far too large to reprint here. It may be downloaded in PDF format from:

Given the increase of congenital anomalies, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and other neurological and autoimmune syndromes in areas where Zika virus is circulating and their possible relation to the virus, the Pan American Health Organization / World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) recommends its Member States establish and maintain the capacity to detect and confirm Zika virus cases, prepare healthcare facilities for the possible increase in demand at all healthcare levels and specialized care for neurological syndromes, and to strengthen antenatal care. In addition, Member States should continue efforts to reduce the presence of mosquito vectors through an effective vector control strategy and public communication.

These are early days, of course, and the investigation into this virus – and the health risks – are just getting started. Given the severe consequences of infection, particularly for pregnant women and their unborn children, an aggressive posture when it comes to surveillance, and prevention, makes sense.